Standard Bank ranked among the world’s best employers and top in Africa by Forbes

Standard Bank Group has once again earned global recognition, being named one of the World’s Best Employers by Forbes for 2025.

The accolade reaffirms the bank’s position as a leading employer not only in South Africa but across the African continent.

Ranked 28th in the world out of 900 multinational companies, Standard Bank emerged as the highest-ranked organisation from Africa and South Africa.

It also secured the third position globally within the Banking and Financial Services sector, reflecting its consistent focus on people, purpose, and performance.

Sim Tshabalala, Chief Executive of Standard Bank Group, says the recognition highlights the heart of the organisation.

“Standard Bankers are deeply committed to our purpose and to the people we serve. This prestigious recognition by Forbes, for the fourth year, is a testament to our 54,000 people, their unwavering commitment and their impact on sustainable growth throughout Africa,” Tshabalala said.

Each year, Forbes partners with global research firm Statista to identify the world’s best employers through independent and anonymous surveys.

More than 300 000 employees from over 50 countries rate their companies on key indicators such as talent development, workplace culture, diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility.

According to Sharon Taylor, Chief People and Culture Officer at Standard Bank Group, the achievement is rooted in the organisation’s commitment to its people.

“Our people are our greatest source of sustainable competitive advantage. We are committed to their growth and in turn, they are the driving force behind the growth of our clients and the continent,” Taylor said. 

Taylor added that the company’s purpose statement, “Africa is our home, we drive her growth,” is more than a slogan.

“It is something all Standard Bankers have the opportunity to truly live. We are deeply honoured that our powerful value proposition has once again been underscored by Forbes,” she added.

The bank’s focus on people development, inclusion, and empowerment is key to its success.

By investing in skills development and leadership programmes, Standard Bank continued to position itself as a modern, purpose-driven employer that is shaping the financial landscape of Africa while creating meaningful opportunities for its workforce.

This latest accolade follows a string of recent global recognitions for the group.

Earlier this year, Standard Bank was named among TIME Magazine’s World’s Best Companies and also featured on Newsweek’s list of the World’s Most Trustworthy Companies for 2025.

Together, these honours underline the group’s growing international reputation for excellence, innovation, and integrity.

In addition to these accolades, Standard Bank has been lauded for its focus on sustainability and digital transformation.

Its leadership in financial inclusion, technology-driven banking solutions, and community upliftment initiatives has positioned the bank as a benchmark for African corporates competing on the global stage.

The bank’s people-first culture has played a central role in this success.

By fostering a workplace that values collaboration, learning, and personal growth, Standard Bank has cultivated a diverse and motivated workforce that continues to drive the organisation’s long-term goals.

“As we grow and evolve, we remain committed to being an employer of choice. We believe that when our people thrive, our clients and communities thrive too. That is what drives us forward every day,” Taylor said.

“Ultimately, what makes Standard Bank special is our people. Their passion, creativity, and commitment are the true measure of our success. This recognition belongs to every Standard Banker across the continent who works each day to make a difference,” Tshabalala further said.

At a time when the global banking industry faces unprecedented change, Standard Bank’s recognition by Forbes places it among an elite group of companies proving that strong leadership, purpose, and people-driven values can deliver lasting success.

BUSINESS REPORT